Merry Christmas!

This is the mom here. Merry Christmas! Because this time of the year, missionaries get to call home or Skype, there is no email to be had. I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and a Happy New year!
Much love,
Leian

Yummy, Yummy, Yummy!

I loved the Christmas package you let me open. Yummy yummy yummy! Elder Smith liked it to. So, some cool news. Today we found out what was happening for transfers since they are tomorrow. I am staying again with Elder Smith. This will make it the end of this transfer. We are working with several new people and will be getting them ready for baptism. So lots of stuff is going good. What would be a good time to call all of you or skype you guys.

Love,

Jonathon

Feeling Better and Reflections

OK so I am feeling a lot better and I wanted to tell you about a few things that have happened, that I might have forgotten to have mentioned to you. So this transfer we have had 5 baptisms. The first two was of a lady name Twanya and her daughter Lexi. They are funny. The mom likes to be mean to me but its all in fun. If we were late to a lesson by 1 min she would say "so were you late because you had to fix your hair". And it was only me she would say it to. They were like family. It was so much fun working with them. The next one was a 9 year old girl named Anita. We taught her for a while and when she was ready for baptism she asked me to be the one to baptize her. I asked if she was sure that she didn't want the bishop to do it but she said no. It was such a amazing moment, to be able to baptize her. The spirit was so strong. It took me back when I said "Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ". Thinking that the Lord was allowing me to do that, was amazing. The other was a mother and her daughter. We had ordained the dad with the priesthood so he could be the one that baptized them. This was the Gilbert family. Sister Gilbert is an amazing person. She had a strong Spirit as we taught her. She was funny as well. She got mad when she found out I was eating a lot of Ramen. I told her it was a gift from another family. She said it was bad for me and the next day had gotten me "healthy" food. I told her she didn't need to but she said "You need a mom so bad it not even funny". This made me laugh so much. I was thinking man I cant go anywhere without getting in trouble lol. OK so correction, we had 6 baptisms. The last one was of an 80 year old lady named Rosemary. She was a blast to teach because she was a firecracker. She was super accepting of the gospel and she always had something to throw at us. The people I have met here in the Brigham South Stake and Perry Stake has made a huge mark on my life that they will always be in my heart. I love them all so much and I love the work I do. Its not always easy but it is ALWAYS worth it. I will never feel a loss in doing this work. The people I meet will always be worth all the trials. I hope that you can find joy in serving the Lord. 

D&C section 4
1 Now behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.
2 Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.
3 Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work;
4 For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul;
5 And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work.
6 Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence.
7 Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.
This is on of my favorite Scriptures
Love,
Elder Felton

NOT a Oompa-Loompa!

So I'm not sure what to email you. Not much happened.  We were sick all week so we didn't get to go out and about. I hope to be able to send everyone a letter tonight.I Love you,
Jon

(Conversation with Elder Felton via email, Mom (me) asking why his suit is smaller)
(1) From: Elder Felton
Its not that its small just in the sleeve its a little short now as with the pants. I thought I was done growing but my body said nope! I just need to find a place to have the sleeve and pants lengthened.

(2) From: Mom
Maybe a dry-cleaners?
Sorry for the nags!
I love you!
I really do!
I'm just glad your a giant, and not a Oompa-Loompa!
Hugs from home!
Love,
MOMMY!

(3) From: Elder Felton
lol What the heck?

(4) From: Mom
I'm glad you are a giant because your getting taller, rather than rounder like a Oompa-Loompa!
Hahahahahaha!
Miss your face!
Mommy

(5) From: Elder Felton
lol. I love you, and the card should be going out today.

Heart Attack = Walmart

I am glad you had a good holiday. So some funny stuff that's happened. OK so me and my companion Elder Smith were walking into a store and we were about to head out when this lady ran us down shouting "MISSIONARIES". We looked back and she said "I need your help this lady is having a heart attack". We then asked if anyone had called 911 they said no that all she needed was a blessing. (now note this was not the funny part)  So they brought us to an isle and we gave her one in front of a few people.(that was the weird part) The thing that made it even weirder was the husband said she wasn't having one and his wife said very calmly that she had been talking to the hospital when she was on her way to the store and they told her she was having a heart attack and her husband then said "Why the heck did you then have me drive you to the store women". She told him they needed some stuff for Thanksgiving and she needed to pick up meds. I am glad her husband then took her to the hospital. The funny part was when we got back to our car Elder Smith said, "I don't see how a heart attack equals walmart". I was glad to be there when it was needed, but I hope I wont have to do that every time I go to a store or I might have to swear off of them. Aside from that big confusing mess I am doing well. For the most part. The day before I got your package with the cold meds, I conveniently got the cold. You must have like ESPN or something (quote from Mean Girls) lol. No but really, thanks so much it has been a blessing. I love you so much. I loved the poem but it was hard for me to read because it made me start to tear up. I was like great here I go turning into a mess! lol But really it meant a lot and I am so glad you sent it!Love you and miss you.


Elder Felton

Turkey and Friends

I got the pics and I loved them. The box I haven't gotten. They have kinda stopped sending mail so they can give it all out at the party so I'm sure its in the office. I am so happy that you were there to help that lady. You were late because the Lord needed you to be. you were in the right place at the right time. I am so happy that she has found joy in the gospel and that you can help her to find friends in the ward because the Evansville ward is the best in the whole world lol.
So what will Emma be doing at this job of hers? I'm having a hard time remembering what that place did. Was it even open when I was there? I am happy you got plans this Thanksgiving  We have had several invites for Thanksgiving. So we will be taken care of.
My sweater is good. Large is the size I would need if someone were to send one. So one of my suits is getting a little small and so I know this place were I can get one for a good price. I am thinking I might do that soon. My clothes are good but I might need some new socks. I saw this place that has some cool socks I could wear. 
I love you so much for all that you do. We have a baptism coming up soon so after that is when I will be sending pics. I know I put it off but I want to send these with the rest of them. I love you always.
Elder Felton

Christmas, Baptisms, and Weddings

OK I Swear on the River Styx I wont open the presents lol. (Percy Jackson reference) As for the mission its going great! We had a baptism this last weekend. It was so much fun. The lady who got baptized she gave me a hard time because she got to the chapel before me and said "Why are you late? You probably were fixing your hair." I laughed and told her of course I got to look good all the time and she laughed. Her and her daughter got baptized and they cried almost the whole time. I love being able to feel the strong spirit that is at events like this.

So all my companions go as follow: (in order) Elder Lanier, Elder Hall, Elder Mitchell and now Elder Smith.

OH! A cool thing I figured. At the end of this transfer I will have spent 6 months in Brigham. A quarter of my mission here! That was just a cool little note I had. Being a senior missionary is weird. I have now had to take on more responsibilities and you know how much I "love" that. But I am looking at the positive. I can now start to teach other missionaries some of the things I have learned over the course of my mission.

Go Emma gettin that money girl! I hope it went well for her. I know She will do great. She is really magnifying her calling that's great! She will do amazing as she serves the Lord in all she does.

OH NO you were sick! Did you ask for a blessing?  You should have little missy! If you are still not feeling well GET one. I got one for my back after dealing with pain for months and the next day most of it was gone. It still hurts a little but it is so much better. The Lord wants to help us but we first have to humble our selves and ask. This is hard for me sometimes because I am so stubborn but He does help.

RYAN AND GABBY ARE MARRIED!? I got no invite and no letter! Oh man is he in trouble. What the heck? OK, I'm not really mad. I am actually happy for them and if you ask me, I say its about time. They had been talking about it forever. This is good news and I am really happy for them. I love them so much they really were some of the my best friends. I loved the time when we got to go to Bdubs.

Well I am glad to know all is well and I hope it continues that way.

I love you so much.

love Jonny

Anticipating a New Companion

I miss my puppy. So transfers are here, but I am staying in Brigham again and I am now a Senior Missionary. Not much is new other than my companion, who I will meet tomorrow. We have a few baptisms coming up and I am super excited. I love you guys so much and miss you so much. Soooo. Here is something that our mission wants to happen. We are having a mission conference party on the December 6th, so they want all Christmas mail to be sent by November 30th if not it might take longer for someone to get their mail. I'm fine with, whenever but they told us to let you know. I really wish I could think of something to tell you that was amazing but to be honest its been pretty chill here... and I don't mean cold! Its been nice weather for now, but its going to get in the high 30's to 40's range here soon, so that will be "cool"  HAHA see what I did??? I made a funny. Well I love you so much I hope you all can have a great week and I hope some super fun stuff happens soon that I can write to you about.

Elder Felton's Sister Shares a Letter

(Letter to Elder Felton's from his sister 2 weeks ago with no response)

Hey Jon! :D I'm sending u this email from my phone! Isn't that awesome!? I just thought I'd tell you that I'm having a great time here. I went to a YSA regional activity and at first I was determined not to have fun but then we played this game called "steal the bacon" and it made me feel LOADS better :) anyway after that i had a lot of fun. I found a nerd herd to be and we talked pokemon and Invader Zim. It was awesome! XD OH! Also! Guess what tv show was added to netfilx. >I] CODE LYOKO! We've been watching it everyday and its sooo fun! it also makes me think of you :') aaaaanyway just thought I'd tell you those things. Oh and mom has also made me change the light bulbs and mow the lawn.... so not fun... Well I guess I'm out of stuff to talk about so be seein' ya!
~Love Emmy ;D

(Letter to Elder Felton's from his sister 1 weeks ago with no response)
??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?

(Response from Elder Felton to his sister 1 day ago)

I am so sorry that I am such a tard monkey that i didn't email you back. That was my bad and I am sorry for that. I hope you will find it in your amazingness that is Emma Felton to forgive me in my most stupid moment. Ok I'm done with that lol. How are you doing. Thing are going great. We are doing a ton of teaching and we also have a few people who are getting close to baptism. This family is going to be baptized on Thanksgiving weekend and I just love them. I am nervous because transfers are in a week. YIKES! but I will be able to go to there baptism even if I get moved. I was in my last area for 3 transfers and I have been in this one for three as well. I know that if it does happen it because my awesomeness is need there to get all of norther Utah baptized  Ah but back to my sister. How are thing? What is new? What is some cool stuff that you have been doing?

I love you so much I am sending photos soon so you will be able to see some of the things and people I have met.

Love,

Jon

That Is Just Pitiful! :)

(Insert wonderfully creative letter from mom here)

(Elder Felton's response)
Hey, I am going to be sending a letter tonight so I don't want to say any spoilers. I am doing great and hope all is well!
Felton Is Iontach <--- that is Irish


(Mother's Response)
That is just pitiful!
I love you!
Mom

(Elder Felton's Response)
I'm super sorry i forgot to tell you that I got 2 from Granna I am super sorry that I couldn't write you. always remember that I love you and always know that I love you and keep you in my prayers I am really sorry. 
Love Jon

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

It freaking snowed last night! Its crazy out west. The mountains are cover with snow but thankfully the ground is all melted and just wet. Besides this I hate to say, we have had a rather slow week. The only cool news is that on last Saturday we had a baptism. We had been working with this mom to get more active and her youngest (that was old enough to get baptized) got baptized it was so cool to see how many people came to see it and her older sister who isn’t to active gave the talk on baptism. It was super cool and was nice to be able to have some big event happen. Elder Mitchell has been sick lately and so we are taking it kind of slow. We have been teaching a lot but its one of those waiting moments were we have taught them everything and now its waiting till the day the day of their baptism or waiting for them to choose to be baptized. Today we are going to be going to a place that has lazer tag and mini golf with our mission president. I love you so much and I want you to know I will be sending out some letters to you and to Emma. I know I’m bad at this but I know I should and I feel its bout time I did right? Soooo... May all your dreams come true and may the spirit be ever in your hearts. My scripture for the day is...

   

  D&C 84:88 "And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up."

Love Jon

(The following is a little back and forth. I love it when he is able to do this!)

Mom: Don't forget to send photo disc, if you can. We need some more photos!

  -Mom

Elder: Will do my awesome mommy I love you soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!

Mom: Ya ya ya ya, I'm awesome! So are youuuuuuuuu! Have a super fantabulous week!!!!!

 Search Ponder and Pray!!!

-Mom

Elder: <(^.^)>

Mom: My Kirby boy!

-Mom

Elder: Haha I love that I can talk back with you sometimes.

Teach by the Spirit

Fear not about the slowing down. It has happened to us as well. Although we are teaching a lot and have a few baptisms coming up. One of the families we are teaching is feeding us tonight because the wife felt bad for us when we told her we were going to eat Ramen, which I have been craving. (so happy when some one gave us 3 boxes of it YEA!) Her husband is going to baptize her and their daughter. I am so excited to be able to see so many people come unto Christ. Oh snap! So we have been teaching this girl who is the last part of her family to get baptized and she wasn't to sure if she wanted to and so we had her meet us at another missionaries baptism so she could see one and feel the Spirit. after that we met back at her place and had her pray to know if it was true we told her after she was done we weren't going to move till she got her answer. While we were sitting there I heard a voice tell me "Don't worry. She will know." and it felt so warm and calm I almost jumped because it wasn't from any one there. About 5 seconds after that she looked up and said she got her answer. She told us in her words "He said I am doing the right thing but I need to read the Book of Mormon and pray more but [I am] one the right path." I started smiling so much and I almost could not speak because I had just realized that Christ had just spoken to both of us. It was such an amazing moment in my mission. I will never forget this.

 So I am so glad that you are doing so well. it is so good to know that you are also able to help other out as well. You are being a missionary yourself. Oh, tell Granna I got one of the packages she sent. I love you all so much and I always keep you in my prayers.

October General Conference 2012

General Conference was amazing! It was so cool to see such a big focus on service and missionary work. I loved it so much. I loved President Monson's talk during the priesthood session and Holland's during the Sunday morning. I love being able to here from them. Its so weird because it was my least favorite thing with church and now it has become my favorite. It fills me with strength and make me look to see if I am really doing my best. We have started to teach a few new people and we are seeing a lot of work that will be happening here shortly. Not much is new, Elder Mitchell have been a little sick this last week but we are feeling better. It has slowed us down a bit but now that we are feeling better we are hoping to get back to full speed. Don't feel bad about having a sort email. I think this one will be as well. hope all is well and always know I love you.

I Thought Mormon Missionaries Rode Bikes

(Dear Elder Felton... Love, Mom 
The Missionary and the Meatloaf
An LDS missionary was an enthusiastic but not very capable cook. One day his companion saw that he was close to tears."Elder, what's wrong? Did you get a 'Dear John' today?""Worse! I made a meat loaf for our dinner but the landlady's cat ate it!""Don't take it so hard, Elder. We'll buy her another cat.")

Haha! That would be my cooking.

YA for the Fall Festival. The greatest and most annoying thing on earth lol. I have no idea why I like it so much. Maybe I see the huge missionary potential there. What ever the reason I will truly miss it. Go Emma for working 2 sifts I will say this I didn't like working one because at the end I was so tired of people in general. I loved the picture of her and my baby (dog). It made me smile.

So I'm glad you like the picture. We went over to see a family we visit every now and then who we worked with a bit and they were having a yard sale. so their friend got her phone out and took a picture. They are a really nice family who have been fun to work with.

As for conference I am more excited for this one then any I have ever seen. The reason why I am is because Elder Mitchell and I will be going to Salt Lake to see the Sunday morning session, with a family we are teaching, to see it in person. I am super excited and I cant wait to see how the family feels afterwards. This will be an awesome moment and I will take lots of pictures.

We recently had a baptism and have a few more coming up soon. The temple has really blessed us here. I know that when the Indiana one is finished it will help the missionaries out there. Things are going great and I have been working on a letter that has taken a few days to write I hope to send it out soon. I love you so much. I hope all is well.

Love Elder Jonathon David Felton

How Do You Get Rid Of the Mormon Missionaries?

(On Tue, Sep 25, 2012, Leian Felton wrote:
Getting Rid of the Missionaries
Q: How do you get rid of the Mormon Missionaries?
A: Leave a chalk outline and a few Book of Mormons scattered around on the front porch!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!)

HAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was funny (dvytkyu64rwrfv3t54) <----- That was Sister Wagner who put that in the email. She is funny. Well thank you for the 20 it will be put to good use. 
One request if to take lots of pictures at the Fall Festival. I will miss it so much. :( Oh well. So lots have been going on and I am super excited! We have a lot of people who will be getting baptized soon. OH YAY! I'm staying in Brigham through another transfer with Elder Mitchell. This will be the longest I have been with a companion. Three transfers. 
So any way we are also looking into getting tickets to go down to General Conference. It was super cool that recently I was in the Temple Cultural Celebration. How are things with yall. Sorry I cant think of much to talk about so I think I'll send another letter when more pops up and Sister Wagner is amazing/best missionary ever!!!

In Every Life, A Little Rain Must Fall

I am so sorry about you getting stuck in the rain while putting on new wipers. The funny thing is, when I got them for my car and started to try to put them on, it was raining bad, for me too.  I was at autozone getting wet, trying to figure it out when finally, one of the guys inside came out and asked if I needed help. I think it's funny how we had a similar problem. Oh but aren't the rainx wipers so good. We have them on our cars here as well because they work great. I was also confused when they said my wiper blades were actually different sizes. Things here have been going great. I am hoping to stay in Brigham, as it has just gotten a new Temple that is going to be dedicated this Sunday. I am wanting to go do work there asap. It was so much fun to be able to go there almost every day with people that we are teaching. We were there so much that the sister missionaries had us go get stuff for them since they were there all day. They enjoyed working there a lot but are happy to be able to go back to teaching the people in their areas. As for what we have been up to, we have started to teach some new people and 2 of them are going to get baptized. One of our converts will be going to the Temple to do baptisms for the dead. We are going to see if we can go to support her. We can actually help except maybe the confirmations. We will have to see. as for my blessing I will be getting it on Friday at 6. Thanks for being so patient with me. I have the letter for you, but I am going to add a little to it. I forgot to send it but hey, I wouldn't be me if I didn't forget something lol! hmmmm. Maybe I was wrong about the patient part of you waiting on my blessing. lol Oh man just teasing. I love your nagging haha! I will be sending the memory card after the next transfer so I can get pics with those that will be leaving and then you can have those. I am so happy about all that I am teaching. One of the families that we have been teaching is going to be going to conference. We are seeing if we can get tickets to go. I am super excited to possibly go down and actually see it in person. The members here have been super great. They have treated us great and have been a huge help in teaching we are being fed every night and I have enough food for lunch and breakfast. As for what I need.... I don't know but when I find out I will let you know.         

<(^.^)>   

haha I love you so much, you mean so much to me. I hope this will help as you wait for the letter.

Love, 

ELDER JONATHON DAVID FELTON

Slowing Down

Things have been going so good. It has been incredible being in Brigham. I love this area so much. The people here are so wonderful. I love the those that I teach. Its been super fun. We have been able to take almost everyone we are working with through the Temple for the open house. It has been a really good experience. I have been having a great time with all the missionaries that I am serving around. They have a good time even when they work. There is not much going on here. Things are slowing down a bit now that school has started back up. It makes the afternoons a little more difficult. The nice thing is that it is easier for us to catch people in the evening. I got all the stuff you sent and I think the letters are on their way from Ogden to here. I hope all is well.  I'm not sure what to write about because my brain doesn't seem to want to help me out today. Oh, I had one thought if there is anything you would like to know you could put them in an email for next time. I have already began work on my blessing and it shouldn't take long anymore (I hope, knock on wood). My brain seem to be saying that it is sleeping today and I am on my own, which is hard because I need it to think. Ok, (now that my craziness is over) I hope everyone is doing good. I miss you guys so much. I love you a lot more then you shall ever know. Did you ever find the quad? love ya's me amigo.

Love Elder Felton  

Man, I Miss Your Cooking

*Note: ((Parentheses on this letter indicate me, the mom, replacing the name of a person or to something else to better explain the email and protect the person mentioned))

Alright, you have got to tell ((Jon's friend who is getting married)) to write me. Tell him I said, "What the heck man?". I am so happy for them, those two are great. I forgot that after high school the ward gives adult callings lol. I am glad Noah is doing good. ((Left his name here on purpose)) I miss him. I got the picture of him. My poor dog doesn't know whats going on haha. Man I miss your cooking. Lately I have been having to eat more weird stuff and because I don't want a person to get mad, I'll eat it even if I know it will make me sick. There have been a few time we had to stop working so I could sit on my throne as toilet king for and hour or so. ((Maybe I should have left that out but decided to leave it)) I am sooo happy for ((couple expecting a baby)). I remember when he left for a mission himself, I cant believe it. Go Brother Kulenholeter I am happy for him he is a good man and I believe that he will be happy. ((left name on purpose)) Holy poop I cant believe Emma is 2! What the heck?! ((Took out last name,favorite baby he left behind)) I am so happy that ((Friend at Church joined the military)) is doing well. he is a good kid. I am happy that he is making steps back to church and that he is taking care of his family. I still worry about him so its nice to hear some good news. Now I have something else to worry about lol. Well tonight I will send the letter for you to read to the ward. I don't know much to think of right now. OH YEA! Grandma Christy and Andy are going to the Temple open house today with me and my companion. I will tell you how it goes in the letter.  Well I am glad all is well. We are having a good time here and having a lot of success.

Love,

Elder Felton

Tie Burning and Other Such Things

Thank you so much for all you do. I loved that scripture so much and I enjoy looking forward to what you guys learn from the scripture that I sent you. I have some bad news my camera is starting to have some problems and doesn't work all the time. I am now saving up for a new one so I hope to replace it soon. It works right now but at times it doesn't like listening to me. Don't worry about the package so much I just wanted to make sure it didn't get lost or stolen.  I love you so much. OH hey I have had a about 4 baptisms in the last 2 weeks and have some pictures from that along with some pictures from my 6 month tie burning. I have been able to go to the Brigham City Temple open house with some families and it has been a blast. I am working on getting some pics of the temple. Thing are cool here I love it in Brigham so much. At one of our recent baptisms our mission president baptized the people. He had to interview them and she could choose between me or my companion and so she asked if our mission pres could do it because she couldn't choose between us.

Love,

Elder Felton

And Then There Was One More!

(Elder Felton's reply to my quick email)

Ha ha! The first thing I told my companion was that you sent an email calling me out for not sending one. I love you so much and want you to know that I am sending a letter to you and to Emma. Don't think I was trying to be mean. I was giving you a hard time because I never get to anymore. I love you and I promise a lot of details in the letters.
Love,

Elder Felton

(This is only on here to explain what was going on and some of Elder Felton's remarks)

On Tue, Aug 21, 2012 "Mom" wrote:

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO sorry! Here is why your email didn't happen...

You knew Emma was with her dad this last week. Well Emma was supposed to fly back to Dallas with your aunt Stephanie and her kids. They were in the Portland Airport for TWO DAYS an no flights! Then they drove to Seattle Washington to try to get a flight home where They stayed for another 20 hrs. There were a lot of tears and Emma ended up flying home on Delta (thanks to granna and grandpa) and just got home at 9:30am Evansville time after a horrid almost 80 hours!

You are NOT forgotten, BUT you were re-prioritized for the last few days. Sorry. Emma is home, safe, and VERY happy and EXTREMELY grateful! She will send you a letter.

I wasn't going to write this but I am hoping you will get the chance to check your email again later today. And I thought how awful it would be if there still wasn't SOMETHING!

Your package from me was too heavy so I am repacking it into two or three smaller ones. Maybe this will make up for today's folly!

I will have a longer email next week.

I LOVE YOU!

P.S. JUST BECAUSE I DIDNT SEND YOU AN EMAIL DOESN'T EXCUSE YOU NOT WRITING ME ONE!!!! You are REQUIRED to send me one!

HA!

BAD Missionary Momma!!!

WHAT THE HECK?!?!?‏

 Jonathon (Elder) Felton

To Leian Hotmail

No emails no letters I feel like you have forgotten me

(***To quickly sum up, Elder Felton's sister was stuck in an airport for 3 1/2 days and poor Elder Felton was shuffled to the bottom of his mom's priority list this week. Bad BAD momma!***)

Staying Put, Where's My Box?

(Note from mom: Maddie is his little cousin about 3 years old)
What Maddie has replace me?!?! I should have know that she would replace me. I hope that Emma was OK on the plane. I am sorry that she was scared. Flying has never been a difficult thing for me except for the time that one of our flights was cancelled while we were Dallas or Houston. I forget which one it was but it was the worst time I ever had. I think I even cried during that time because I did not know how I was going to get home. I hope you are able to find your puzzle pieces.
So transfers are here again and I have good news. I am staying in place and I'm staying with Elder Mitchell. It is great because we have some people that want us to go to the temple open house with them. So all is well here. We have a baptism this weekend and we are excited. The best part is that the parent that is less active is getting interested again. I was wondering about the package you said you would send. i haven't gotten it and i wanted to make sure it wasn't lost.
Love,
Elder Felton

Six Month Milestones

Ah man you saw Mitt! That’s awesome! I hope things are going well. I’m glad that you were able to get your card. I thought that would be funny because I wouldn't be able to tell you on Facebook. Things here are going well. Right now we are teaching a lot of people. Five of those have accepted a baptismal date. It is so cool to see so many people accept Christ in there life. My companion is Elder Mitchell. He is a great guy. The people in my district are great. This has been fun serving right by the Temple. The best part is that I was able to go inside the Temple before the open house. The only things I can think of that I need are the thing that I told you about. The reason I asked for the scriptures was because granna has a lot of stuff marked in there and it would be like having a piece of her with me. I still have mine but I just thought it would be nice. The Temple is so beautiful here. I am so excited for it. One of the families we teach has gotten tickets for the open house and got some for us to go with them. This is a beautiful place here and I'm so excited to see all that the Lord has for me.

Love,

Jon

Memory Cards ROCK!

Things here are a blast. I have been having so much fun. I was able to go into the Brigham Temple before it opened to help decorate the inside. We had a baptism last Saturday. It was cool because they wanted me to speak even though I had only taught them 4 times. The pictures from that are on my new card. I am glad you were able to talk to the mom of the baby. She was a blast to teach. She is definitely a friend I will always have. The photos of me with the dogs and that family is the one I mentioned earlier who we gave a blessing to the youngest boy. I look forward to the day that I am able to tell you about all the pictures I sent, those I have taken and all those I have yet to take (I wonder what they will be of. lol). Again I am sorry for the small emails. This is a slower place so not much happens but when things happen you will know. It was actually fun to write a handwritten letter. So I feel more might be coming.

Love,

Elder Felton

Pioneer Day Tidbit

Yesterday was a Utah holiday and all the places to email were closed and I don't have much time to write today. I will send a letter with more detail. I know i say it a lot but I will write it tonight and get it ready for the morning.

I Love To See The Temple

I have moved into my new place and its pretty cool here. The best part is that we are so close to the Temple that is about to open up here. (http://www.lds.org/church/temples/brigham-city-utah?lang=eng) It is so cool to have such a huge missionary tool like this. There are a lot of people who are excited and want to know more about it. It will also help those who are not active to get active. It is such a blessing to have Temples so close and I'm looking forward to when the Indiana one will open. They now have a picture for it as well. (http://www.lds.org/church/temples/indianapolis-indiana?lang=eng) I don't know much yet about this area so you will have to forgive me if This is a little short but I haven't been here that long. Oh one thing I was wondering if you could send me was my quad that has grannas name on it. It was the reddish color that has all 4 books in one. I have been thinking it would be nice to have it. Other than that I'm still thinking if there is anything I want.  Its so hard to think sometimes. But if I think of anything I will write it down so I don't forget lol. I hope you guys are doing good and remember I pray for you guys every night.

Love,

Elder Felton

Moving and Miracles

So let me tell you what has been going on. I have had a crazy spiritual week. So to start off the family that we were going to stop teaching, Elder Hall and his new companion will continue teaching them and let me explain why. First, I am being moved to Brigham South (side note I used the DQ card when I went to the Bountiful Temple there was a DQ there) Second, the reason why they will still be taught is a long story that I will try to tell. We were on our way to let them know what we had to do, and when we got there we were told that one of their kids had his skull fractured and was at the hospital. So we didn’t tell them the news yet but I told the mom to keep me informed on what was going on. About 5 min later I got a call asking for a blessing so we went to the hospital which was about a mile away and we were told that he was about to go to Salt Lake to be taken care of there. After I had given him a blessing they took him to Salt Lake. Ok so the next day I get a call from the mom and she told us that while the kid was at the hospital here they said that there was a lot of bleeding to the brain and air was going into it as well. When the got to Salt Lake they took another scan and the doctors became confused because the latest scan showed no bleeding but just a small amount of air where the first showed both. And the doctors said that he was pretty much healed, and that he could go home. Because of this the family saw the blessing and miracle and we told them that they had to show to Heavenly Father their thanks by going to church and that if they didn’t that He might help out in such a way again. That next Sunday they had come to church, which in the year they had been taught they had never done. I was so happy for this change in their life. I understand why I stayed in this area for so long. The Lord will really put us in the place that we need to be. Ok on to the other news. On Saturday we had a baptism that we had to put together in less then 24 hours the kids that were baptized were so great and funny I loved to teach them. One was 8 and the other was 9 and this all happened because we had been teaching a less active lady. I am so excited for transfers and I cant remember if I already mentioned that I was going, but I am going to Brigham South which is going to be by the brand new Temple. It is going to be so cool. I got your first package and I will let you know when the other gets here. I love, and now have a true testimony that God still works miracles even in this time. Continue to follow Him and ask Him for help, He loves to hear from you and NEVER gets tired of it.

Love Elder Felton

The Good, the Bad, and the HEAT

Things here have been great. We are staying much cooler since we got a car. We think we got it because of Elder Hall's ankle got worse for a week. It has been a wonderful blessing. We have found a couple who is less active and we have been helping them get back to church and reading the Book of Mormon. They are great and I love being able to teach them. We have also have these kids we are teaching and for the first time there mom came to church with them on Sunday. The mom is already a member but has not been active in a while. This last Sunday while me and hall were sitting in another ward this girl whose is about 18 came up to us and said "I have been looking for you guys for 3 weeks. I guess all I had to do was come to church." She then told us about what has happened to her that led her to search for us. Then she said she wanted to get baptized. It was so cool to see how the Lord prepared her way before we met her. It has definitely streangthed my testimony. I am soo glad to see blessing come. There are a couple of people that we will stop teaching soon. It breaks my heart to have to do this to them. We ask them to do something or go to church and they always have an excuse why they don't do that. We had to explain to them that if they aren't willing to do anything we asked them they aren't showing any desire to learn. Its a rule a wish we didn't have but I understand that they need to start acting. I will continue to keep in touch but we will not be able to go over as much as before. Back to the good news. I got the package you guys sent and the first thing I ate was the giant slim jim. SOOOO good. And yesterday I got something from Desert Book. And inside was some great music that I love. Thank you guys so much. The Vocal Point one was awesome. This morning we listened to one of the cd's and Elder Hall wants to burn a copy of it now. I think he will do it to all of them lol. I love you so much and hope that you all can have fun in the heat. I know its not easy but if I can do it in dress clothes then you will be able to as well lol.
Love Jon

Fires and Changes

(From Elder)To start off and to put all minds at ease the fires that are going on aren't close to me. I have seen smoke once from it but it wasn't close. So now that that Question has been resolved (lol) on to something a little more fun. Recently I had one of my recent converts tell me that when he can go to the temple he wants me there. It has been amazing to see the gospel completely change his life. He has become a friend that I will always hold close to me. As for actually baptizing someone myself, I have not done that. It would be nice to have one but for me all that matters is when some one lets Christ in their life. That is what has given me great joy.This month coming up in a few days President Olsen and his wife Sister Olsen are going home. It is sad because they really felt like family. Although they are leaving I am excited for the new mission President.
I will write more in a letter because of time.
Love Jon

(From Elder)At the 1st the mission will split North Salt Lake up to Layton will be put into 1 of the 2 new Salt lake missions. Utah will have 8 missions total just a little more in case my letter is late. But it will get sent tonight (Or the morning since that's when the mail will get picked up)

(From mom)
You box is actually mailed! I thought that would make you happy to know!
lots of love!
Mommy

(And finally From Elder)
It does! Sorry I couldn't email much but that's the biggest news here.

Mission Conference

Physical Therapy and Friends

Things are going great. We have gotten a lot of new people to teach and 4 of them have a baptism date already. The Lord truly has been working on these people even before we were here. It has been amazing to see people change as they accept the gospel. One of my recent converts told me that they are working on preparing for the temple to be sealed there, and they said that if I'm around they would like for me to come with them to the temple when they first go through. The change to calling every one our friend has been great. they really have become just that. We have truly been blessed these few weeks in finding people who are accepting of the gospel. This has been a fun transfer. Elder Hall is a stud he has gotten really familiar with the area and is getting a feel for the people. It has been fun to learn from him. Last Thursday I had my last interview with President Olsen. Our new mission president will be coming in soon. It will different seeing how he works. Elder Hall is going to physical therapy and has been getting better. It looks like all my companions will be going to physical therapy ha-ha. No, he really has gotten better and they have helped with my knee. Biking has gotten really easy lately. I am starting to like it more and more. The weather here has been hot but its been OK because we have no humidity. I'm sorry that you do. The down side to that is I'm drinking water all the time and it hasn't rained in a while. All is well here and I have been staying sane for the most part. There are time that I feel like I'm going crazy but its all fun. I love you guys so much and miss you but don't worry I'm not coming home for at least 3 weeks. Just kidding. They might have to force me on the plane when I'm done. But that's not for a while. I love it so much here it now feels entirely like home to me.

Love,

Elder Felton

Sweet and Simple... Send Food!

Hey I can reply real quick to some needs. Elder Hall said to send food lol. Things are good. The picture is someone we are teaching. She just graduated from high school. She had us bike all the way to her graduation. We are in a big hurry and I will be sending a letter with all the details of whats been going on. (I sent 2 that don't have much in them so this gives me something to write you in detail) Yea! =] I love you so much. You are wonderful. Thank you so much for putting up with all my faults. Again I can't say thank you enough but just know I love you and I pray for all of you back home. 

Trip to the Bountiful Temple!

Ah man sounds like you have been busy. Man! Oh yes I love the video of Gypsy. I think she thinks she is 8 feet tall lol. Such a spaz. A good fit to the family for sure. Train "my dog" well and don't be afraid to get on her case for digging lol. You cant be all sunshine and rainbows when she is bad cause she'll think its OK. I'm just messing though because you guys are great. My favorite part of p-day is hearing from you. Elder Hall is great although I think I'm cursed. He is on crutches for 3 weeks because he sprained his ankle really bad. Sounds like my last companion. The worst part is not having a car while on crutches. Our work has slowed down a bit and before that we were doing so much. So right now we are walking/ crutching our way around. He is a great guy. 

Today my whole district got to go to the Bountiful Temple. MAN is it nice! It was so cool to go through for someone else. Not to much happened other then our trip to the urgent care for Elder Hall's ankle. It is getting hot here. The nice thing is there is almost no humidity. I love you so much. I hope all is well. Things are funny with this transfer. I'm thinking its going to be a great one. Today I saw Elder Lanier while we were in Bountiful. His new companion is from Hawaii and he speaks Hawaiian which is cool. I love you so much it has been so cool to see how when you let go of your self, and fully serve the Lord, how blessed you actually are. Its amazing!

Love,

Elder Jonathon David Felton

The Furry Odd Couple

From time to time I (the mom) may add a video clip for our Elder Felton to see. He hasn't seen his dog for a while and never with another one. I had actually uploaded the video here (so Elder Felton didn't need youtube) but accidentally deleted it. Here is the link below. Back to Elder Felton's emails...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boLbLYabm5A

He Really DOES Love His Little Sister!

Things are great with Elder Hall. He is fun and has a great sense of humor. We get along great and have a lot of fun. I'm thinking this is going to be a fun (and also fast) transfer. I hope that I get to stay with him for a bit. He is from California and lives close to Disney Land. One thing that I have learned is that the Lord wont always put people in our way if we don't put our selves in the way of someone else. We have found quite a few new people we are hoping that will lead to some teaching situations. One thing that is a bit of trouble is my knee pain. I have found out that biking can make it flare up. I am working on taking care of it by strengthening my knees. Thank you for sending stuff. I will let you know when I get it. Thanks for all that you do for me. I loved seeing Emma's graduation. It took a lot of effort not to cry but I pulled it off. Got to look strong in front of other missionaries, lol. Anyway, things here are great. I love Ogden so much this place feels like home. (but in a big city kind of way) I didn't think I would miss the country and the rednecks so much (SHOOT DANG!) lol I hope all is well. I love Emma's hair cut it looks good.

All the love in the world,

Elder Jonathon David Felton <3

Elder Felton's Sister Graduates

(Because sometimes Jon can view this page, we add a video message of some sort for Jon to see. Especially important moments such as this.)
It is important to note that in a way Elder Felton was with Emma the whole time. She wore her brothers cap and gown to her graduation! Like a big hug across the miles!

Its about 5 minutes and 21 seconds long.

There is a better quality one on You Tube if you are allowed to view it the link is here: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tq-Nf_zpwl4

First Transfer

So today we found out if we got transferred and I am glad to say, I am staying put. I'm sorry for telling you late today, we have been busy. I'm staying in Ogden and Elder Lanier is going to Farmington which is going to be in the new mission. He is kind of upset by it since he has been in Ogden his whole mission. I am glad to stay. My new companion is Elder Hawl, Haul. I'm not sure how to spell it yet. Wow, it sounds like you have had a pretty crazy time. I hope you can still find fun in the crazy. I am so proud of Emma I wish I could be there for her graduation. That is such a wonderful time. I am glad that she will not have to worry about having such a great day ruined by getting in a car wreck. I will say that my wreck did make graduation day special lol! Things are crazy here with getting the mission ready for the split. I will be losing the car and be walking or biking. I knew this coming. My area didn't use to be a car area so it was only a matter of time before I had to give up the car. I miss all of E'ville. The river, the east side, (Not the west side. I never was over there.) North park. Its all nice out there to me. I love you so much. The Pikachu was cool. I am working on a letter to send you and one for Emma I hope to send them tomorrow. 

(2nd email) 
So the email thing is messed up right now and yes, I would like a memory card. I meant to tell you in the first email but it wont open right now on the computers here. I Love you too. 

(3rd email) 
I also forgot to tell you I hurt my right foot and ankle yesterday, and made it worse today. I love you so much! Don't be mad I just thought I should tell you. It's feeling better now. I love you. Elder Felton 


(Mother's note: I just thought I would point out the fact that my son seems to think I'm going to kill him if he gets hurt. Good Grief!! On the other hand... )

Fancy Seeing You Here!!!

Elder Felton was able to spend some time with some of his family this week! Enjoy the photos!

Phone Calls and Shopping Lists

Elder:
I got the CD and the letters with the pictures. Thank you so much I love them and they make my day each time I see them. I loved the time that I was able to talk to you. It really was the best moment ever. Who would have thought, that would have been one thing that I truly missed? I am glad things are going good. That is great what Emma is doing. (His sister cut her hair and donated it to Locks of Love) I want you and her to know you are both free to use the nice Harry Potter books. Think of it as a change to be close to me as you use them. That's one thing I really miss. Reading books can be so much fun. I'm sorry for a short email as well but I will send a letter soon so I can make up for it. I gave it some thought it would be cool to get my Marvin the Martian (I know I misspelled that) or my black monster hat. Some other music would be cool. Mio is a water enhancer and that might be cool to get. I'm not good at thinking of things I want. Feel free to add something that you think I would like that I just can’t think of right now. I would love a game-boy but that's not aloud lol. I love you so much and I don't want you to spend too much on me if anything it might be cool to get Emma a little something so she feels like she not forgotten. You two mean the world to me and I want you to know that I truly love both of you.
With all the love that's possible, your baby boy,
Elder Jonathon David Felton

Mom:
So NOW you make your momma cry!
I think it's cool that they allow you some fun music and aren’t as strict as we thought!
Also, would you like a BYU Vocal Point CD???
MOM!

Elder:
This mission president is really relax . I think he is trunky. (trunky means he is ready to pack up and go home) he leaves in July.

Mom:
Do you want BYU Vocal Point?

Elder:
Ya, that would be cool too.

The end…

Taking a Mother's Moment

There are many things in this life I am grateful for. Being a mother is the very bets one of all! Today, on Mothers Day, I want to just say how much I love being a mother. I love telling my children, every chance I get, that I love them. I am so very proud of each of them. Today, here, I want to just state that I truly am blessed to be the mother of a missionary. I thought it would be hard, being away from him. And yes, at times it is. But for all the times that it is hard, the Lord has strengthened me and helped me along. The times that are the hardest I feel the Lord's strength. My heart is full! God loves me, and he loves my children! I know that Christ lives! I know that He loves me, and knows me. I know that through Him, I will return to His presence again. I know that God loves my children. I KNOW that God is pleased with my son's decision to serve a mission. I know it. I am indeed grateful for a loving Heavenly Father. I am grateful for my missionary son! I KNOW he is in the Lord's hands. So today, as I am every day, I am grateful for the gift of my children and for the calling of mother.
The Mom

You women, be kind and gracious and generous. Strengthen your children with your faith and your testimony. Lift them up. Help them to walk through the troubled ways of the world as they grow in this very difficult age. Support, sustain, uphold, and bless your husbands with your love and your encouragement; and the Lord will bless you.
Gordon B. Hinckley

Reese's Are Loved Here... Hint, Hint

I am so happy for Emma. I cant believe that she is almost done with school. She can help me out with school when I get back instead of the other way around lol. I would love some Zyrtec. Did you know outdoor allergies are worse in dry areas? I learned that fast lol. But I think I'm starting to get use to it, and the weird thing is, this area is feeling more like home the longer I am here. In the morning we wake up around 6:30 and start to get ready. At 8 we have personal study then at 9 we have 2 hours of companionship study. But after the next transfer it will go down to 1 hour. Then we have lunch around 12 and after that we go out to lessons or we will walk at the park and talk to people there. Sometimes If there are people playing basketball at the park we will play with them for a bit. This has lead to a few teaching lessons.The mission will split in July and they will be Salt Lake West and Salt Lake Central. I don't know were I'll go. At first I was OK going there but as time goes on I want to stay more and more. Reese's are loved here... hint, hint. We have two more weeks till transfers left but there is a good chance I'm staying, but a good chance Elder Lanier will be gone. I'm not driving yet, I will be next month. Aw man, I miss my teachers. They were all so awesome for putting up with me lol! I love you so much and I'm having an awesome time. I swear our dog is crazy. I think she has her sizes mixed up that crazy little fur butt. I love you all so much and you mean the world to me and I miss you all so much. I will try to get those pictures soon for you and get the name tag out to you. (Gypsy go mess up my room for me its been clean for too long) lol. You are so great. I am working on the blessing. I have been giving talks like crazy so I haven't been to the ward I need to yet. We are going there this week if im not asked to talk in the last ward. We have 7 of them. I love you so much.

Elder Felton

Micro Emails and A Look Back

This is the mom here. This week I got a VERY SHORT note. I didn't originally post it here and just posted the following pictures to have the weekly email post. I have changed my mind and have decided to post the micro email because, well, it IS the email he sent and I want to be true to the concept of this blog. so FYI he is talking about a marriage that I told him about. Thanks. ~The Mom

I don't have much time to email today but I will be sending leters again. I know that Great Grandpa and Great Grandma are so happy for them.
I love you so much. I miss you but I know this is where the Lord wants me.
Elder Felton

Pre-Mission Photos!

Learning Patience

I got the Easter boxes from you and the birthday ones. I got the shoes and they are great. They fit fine. I have talked to the bishop here about my patriarchal blessing this last Sunday and he said he would work on it. He might need my membership info for it. I got the pics and I love them. I think some of my favorite parts is where you can kind of see out the window of the the house and see Evansville, lol. I love those DQ people they are great. I am so thankful for all you have done I am so sorry I haven't sent a letter in a while and I will make sure to have one written for you and one for Emma. Your love, support and prayers help me so much even when I feel frustrated with one of our recent converts. I step back and remember that even Christ had to deal with people who were challenging and He always showed love to them. That has been my biggest focus right now. Letting my self go and giving my entire self to the Lord and His work. I know that through Him I can overcome any challenges no matter how hard it might be. Our investigator is a good kid for the most part but is still a little rough around the edges. That will change over time. As for the other questions they will be in the letters. That will help me to think of what to wright. But to answer one right now, I print some (emails) off when I need a reminder to write. So this one has been printed off. Not much going on now but with this warmer weather more people are outside and in the parks and a lot happier so this all is a blessing to missionary work. Thank you for all you do and the love you give. I am so proud of "my" baby girl (puppy) being so brave I cant believe you have 2 bows in her hair, poor thing. lol! I am so proud of Emma. I am glad she didn't follow my example in school. And has decided to out do me. Maybe she will be able to help ME out in school lol. I love you and I want you to know that you are always in my prayers,
Love Elder Felton

Happy Birthday Message from Tasha and Maddie

Time for Reflection

Thanks for calling me old lol. Thanks for sending me shoes. The ones I'm still using had a seam on the outside rip, lol. But I guess they did good for being 4 years old lol. Oh. and things are great! I have enjoy seeing people accept the gospel and then make changes in their lives. The people are so great. I am truly grateful to have been raised in the church because I think it would be really had for me to join. But seeing the joy it brings to a family and to themselves is one of the best parts about a mission. It makes everything worth it. I have truly enjoyed the opportunity to grow in my faith. I have come the truly rely on the Spirit and have come to know of Its power. I know that the Spirit is truly like having our best friend with us at all time so long as we do things that are inviting to the Spirit. The Lord talks and teaches us, through the Spirit and can always gulde us if we allow It to be with us. Jesus Christ loves all of us He wants us to follow Him and He wants to help us. I know that through Him we can overcome anything in our life. He is one person who I can count on. He is the one I love and I am so grateful for an opportunity to serve Him and love every minute of it. Thank you for your love. I know that the Lord loves you and that he is so happy for you faith. I know He will bless you for your love and He knows what it is you go through. As you turn towards Him and allow His Spirit to guide you He will take away your burdens. I know this all to be true and I truly love our Lord. I know that no matter where a person is in their relationship with Christ, I know that He loves them and will help them if they ask, and turn to  Him.